Hobbs Lauds Collaborative Efforts Against Fentanyl Smuggling Amid Trump’s White House Comeback in Nogales

In an effort to address the pressing issue of fentanyl smuggling, Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs has called for enhanced collaboration between state and federal agencies. During a recent press conference at the Mariposa Port of Entry in Nogales, she cautioned the incoming Trump administration against implementing policies she believes would jeopardize Arizona families.

Hobbs emphasized the importance of partnerships, affirming she would not tolerate any actions that undermine community security. “I will not tolerate terrorizing communities or threatening Arizonans,” she stated firmly. However, when pressed on how the state would defend against potential threats, Hobbs opted not to speculate, instead reiterating that Arizona would respond appropriately when necessary.

The press conference marked a significant moment for Hobbs as she spotlighted the contributions of the Arizona National Guard, which has been active in combating drug trafficking under Task Force SAFE, aimed at Stopping Arizona’s Fentanyl Epidemic. Alongside federal and state officials, including acting CBP Commissioner Troy Miller, Hobbs acknowledged the daily struggles faced by law enforcement in the fight against addiction.

“I’ve heard stories of tragic overdoses and violence,” Hobbs noted, highlighting the resource challenges faced by towns like Nogales. She underscored the necessity for immediate action, sharing that her administration has initiated a multi-million dollar strategy to enhance drug trafficking prevention and bolster treatment options for addiction.

The deployment of around 40 National Guard soldiers to assist Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has already yielded significant results, with the seizure of over six million fentanyl pills and substantial amounts of other illicit substances. Hobbs attributed these victories to a collaborative approach that harnesses both state resources and federal support.

In total, her office announced $17 million in additional funding directed to the Arizona Department of Public Safety to enhance local law enforcement operations against drug trafficking. Furthermore, initiatives to support veterans’ substance abuse treatment and equip first responders with lifesaving overdose reversal medication have been launched.

In contrast to prior administrations, Hobbs pointed out that her focus isn’t merely on gaining media attention. “The people of Arizona want results,” she said, emphasizing the need for tangible outcomes rather than political theatrics. This sentiment echoed Miller’s recent comments, where he praised ongoing efforts against fentanyl distribution networks, including the apprehension of key cartel operatives.

The commitment to drug interdiction is not new, as partnerships between the National Guard and border enforcement have existed for decades. Major General Kerry L. Muehlenbeck of the Arizona National Guard noted that these collaborations have long aimed at counter-drug operations, with varying levels of deployment depending on the crises at hand.

Despite the ongoing challenges, Hobbs refrained from discussing how her administration would counter anticipated actions by the Trump administration regarding immigration policy. While many states’ governors have begun forming coalitions for collective resistance, Hobbs stated her focus remains on defending the interests of Arizonans without speculating on future federal actions.

As the state ramps up its efforts to combat fentanyl smuggling and support impacted communities, the collaborative strategies between state and federal officials indicate a determined response to a growing crisis.